Two Big 4 teams in the Saudi Pro League collide on Friday afternoon in Riyadh. Al Nassr vs Al Ahli represents a huge game at the top of the table. Cristiano Ronaldo will be looking for the help of his fellow Al Nassr players in what could end up being a critical battle for AFC Champions League qualification. Continue reading for a breakdown of both sides and insights into how to bet on this Saudi matchup.
- What: Al Nassr vs Al-Ahli Saudi FC, Saudi Professional League
- When: Friday, September 22, 2023
- Time: 2 PM EST
- Where: Al-Awwal Park, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- TV: FOX
Who Will Win in Al Nassr vs Al Ahli?
Highly rated sportsbooks BetOnline, BetUS, and Bovada are curiously misaligned in this top-of-the-table affair. In the 3-way moneyline market, you can get Ronaldo’s Al Nassr to win the match as low as (-130). If you feel more confident about the other side, Al Ahli Saudi is priced as high as (+350). A draw would pay out (+325) at BetOnline.
| SPL |  |
 |
 |
| Al Nassr | -164 | -130 | -150 |
| Al Ahli Saudi | +280 | +292 | +350 |
| Draw | +325 | +292 | +285 |
Al Ahli Survive at Home in Ugly, Controversial Game
Al Ahli Saudi made another mess of a game last time out at home, narrowly defeating Al Taaowun 3-2. The club gave up a late equalizer, only for it to be overturned by a throw-in violation. Chaos ensued after the referee’s decision, with both benches spilling over onto the pitch. Both sides received red cards and played the remainder of stoppage time with only 10 men.
While Al Ahli prevailed, they did not impress as they should have against a lesser opponent on their home soil. Prior to the last match, Al Ahli Saudi FC experienced a crushing 5-1 defeat. Initially, the team showed promise but gradually lost their momentum.
While playing away against Al Fateh, they managed to keep the game within one goal until the 89th minute. Unfortunately, it appeared that Al Ahli lost their resolve, leading to a series of ill-advised challenges that created favorable offensive opportunities for Al Fateh, who capitalized on them effortlessly. This lapse in defense resulted in two additional goals for the opponent, leaving Al Ahli Saudi with a disappointing outcome.
Al Nassr Players on Good Run of Form, But Will It Last?
Despite the current league table, the hosts have been the superior team as of late. Al Nassr defeated Persepolis in an empty stadium for the first leg of their Champions League campaign, and have been on a roll after dropping their first two games of the season. Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane have been the clear workhorses for the club, scoring a combined 13 of the team’s 18 goals this season.
The Power of the “Big 4” Teams in the Saudi Pro League
The Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund has played a pivotal role in the nation’s substantial sports investments in recent years, notably taking a bold step into the world of golf with the establishment of the LIV golf league. Moreover, the Fund has recently assumed ownership of four of the top teams in the Saudi Professional League, namely Al Nassr, Al Ittihad, Al Ahli, and Al Hilal. This newfound financial backing has empowered these clubs to engage in extensive player acquisitions. This includes global stars such as Neymar, Cristiano Ronaldo, and the previous year’s Ballon d’Or recipient, Karim Benzema.
Consequently, these clubs enjoy a significant edge over their less financially endowed rivals. Their players benefit from superior facilities, perform in stadiums with larger seating capacities, and receive robust social media support. In the realm of sports betting, it is hardly surprising that these clubs consistently feature as heavy favorites. Any bettor should exercise caution when considering these prominent factors that tilt the odds in favor of a select few teams in the league.
Best Bets and Predictions for Al Nassr vs Al Ahli Saudi
While I lean towards trusting in the Al Nassr players in this matchup, I do not do so with much confidence. The club has had their fair share of slip-ups this season, and Al Ahli are a quality team who may capitalize off simple mistakes. Fortunately, bettors who favor either side have great lines to pick from. Sportsbooks are not in agreement in this match, lending some potential value on the moneylines for each club.
If you favor Al Nassr to take care of business at home, you can get a line of (-130) on BetUS. This is possibly a generous offer considering lines available on other books, which are as high as (-164).
If you think Al Ahli Saudi will right the ship and pull off the upset on the road, a (+350) reward is not too bad at all.
Finally, if you think the clubs will settle for a draw in what could be a back-and-forth match with two great teams, you can get the draw on BetOnline at a price of (+325).
Best Sportsbooks to Bet on Al Nassr vs Al Ahli Saudi
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